mayor came from, it would be very difficult for other areas to have their voices heard properly. It is far too early to be on the campaign trail.

'We're campaigning to make sure people know the issues at stake before the referendum which, as I see it, are whether or not it is wise to invest so much power in one person, and whether the costs of yet an another overhaul in the system are justified.'

The council's Labour leader, Peter Kent, also says it is premature to be pushing a particular party line in favour of a mayor, and said people should be left to decide on the issue freely.

He added: 'I wonder how the Conservatives would feel if a Labour mayor got in and took away all the power they currently have on the council.

'As the leader of a hung council at the moment I have to take into account views from the whole council. Everybody has a say, which would not happen with an elected mayor.'